Andrássy Avenue: The Grand Boulevard of Budapest

• HelloSzia
  [see-ah]
• GoodbyeViszlát
  [vee-slaht]
• YesIgen
  [ee-gen]
• NoNem
  [nem]
• Please/You're welcomeKérem
  [kay-rem]
• Thank youKöszönöm
  [kerr-suh-nehm]
• Excuse me/SorryElnézést
  [el-nay-zayst]
• How are you?Hogy vagy?
  [ho-j vahdj]
• Fine. And you?Jól vagyok. És te?
  [yole vahdjok ash teh]
• Do you speak English?Beszélsz angolul?
  [behs-ales ang-oh-lool]
• I don't understandNem értem
  [nem air-tem]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseSzeretnék látni az étlapot, kérem
  [seh-reht-nayk laht-nee oz ate-la-pot, kay-rem]
• I don't eat meatNem eszem húst
  [nem es-em hoost]
• Cheers!Egészségedre!
  [egg-ay-she-geh-dreh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseSzeretnék fizetni, kérem
  [seh-reht-nayk fee-zeht-nee, kay-rem]

• Help!Segítség!
  [she-geet-sayg]
• Go away!Menj el!
  [men yel]
• Call the Police!Hívj rendőrt!
  [heev rend-ohrt]
• Call a doctor!Hívj orvost!
  [heev or-vosht]
• I'm lostElvesztem
  [el-veh-stem]
• I'm illBeteg vagyok
  [beh-teg vahdjok]

• I'd like to buy...Szeretnék vásárolni...
  [seh-reht-nayk vah-shah-rohl-nee]
• I'm just lookingCsak nézelődöm
  [chahk nay-zeh-loh-dohm]
• How much is it?Mennyibe kerül?
  [men-yee-beh keh-rool]
• That's too expensiveTúl drága
  [tool drah-gah]
• Can you lower the price?Le tudnád engedni az árat?
  [leh too-dnaad eng-ehd-nee oz ah-raht]

• What time is it?Mennyi az idő?
  [men-yee az ee-doh]
• It's one o'clockEgy óra van
  [edge oh-rah vahn]
• Half past (10)Fél tizenegy
  [fale tee-zen-edge]
• MorningReggel
  [rehg-gel]
• AfternoonDélelőtt
  [deh-leh-loht]
• EveningEste
  [eh-shteh]
• YesterdayTegnap
  [teg-nahp]
• TodayMa
  [mah]
• TomorrowHolnap
  [hohl-nahp]
• 1Egy
  [edge]
• 2Kettő
  [ket-toh]
• 3Három
  [hah-rom]
• 4Négy
  [nayg]
• 5Öt
  [oht]
• 6Hat
  [haht]
• 7Hét
  [hayt]
• 8Nyolc
  [nyolts]
• 9Kilenc
  [keelents]
• 10Tíz
  [teese]

• Where's a/the...?Hol van a...
  [hohl vahn ah]
• What's the address?Mi a cím?
  [mee ah cheem]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Mutatnál nekem (a térképen)?
  [moo-taht-naal neh-kem ah tair-kay-pen]
• When's the next (bus)?Mikor jön a következő (busz)?
  [mee-kor yern ah kuh-vet-keh-zoh boos]
• A ticket (to ....)Egy jegyet (....-ra)
  [edge yeh-yeht ra]

Andrassy Avenue, originally known as Andrássy út, was constructed between 1872 and 1876 as part of the city's development plans to connect the city center with the City Park (Városliget). The boulevard was designed in the neo-Renaissance style and became a symbol of Budapest's aspirations as a modern European capital. The avenue was named after Gyula Andrássy, the Hungarian Prime Minister, who played a vital role in the Austro-Hungarian Compromise of 1867.

The avenue is lined with stunning architectural landmarks, showcasing the eclectic styles of the late 19th century. Notable buildings include the Hungarian State Opera House, designed by Mihály Pollack, and the House of Terror, which commemorates the victims of both the Nazi and Communist regimes. These structures reflect the cultural and political shifts that have shaped Hungary's history.

Throughout the 20th century, Andrassy Avenue became a cultural and social hub, hosting numerous theaters, cafes, and shops. The avenue witnessed significant events, including the 1956 Hungarian Revolution, where it served as a stage for protests against Soviet rule. The boulevard has been a focal point for both artistic expression and political activism.

In 2002, Andrassy Avenue was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its remarkable urban landscape and historical significance. This designation highlights the avenue's status as a vital part of Budapest's cultural identity and its role in the broader narrative of European history.

Today, Andrassy Avenue continues to be a vibrant thoroughfare, attracting both locals and tourists. It is home to luxury boutiques, cafes, and cultural institutions. The avenue hosts various events and festivals, maintaining its legacy as a center of cultural life in Budapest. The ongoing preservation efforts reflect the community's commitment to honoring its historical roots while embracing modernity.

Andrassy Avenue is easily accessible from various parts of Budapest. If you are arriving at Keleti Railway Station, you can take Metro Line 2 (the red line) directly to the Oktogon stop, which is at the start of Andrassy Avenue. From Deák Ferenc tér, interchange to Metro Line 1 (the yellow line) or Line 3 (the blue line) to reach the area. For those coming from Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, the 100E bus takes you directly to Deák Ferenc tér, where you can switch to the metro.

Andrassy Avenue is well served by public transport. The Avenue itself is best explored on foot to fully appreciate its architecture and attractions. However, trams 4 and 6 run along the nearby Grand Boulevard, providing easy access to other parts of the city. Bicycles can be rented through various bike-sharing services, and there are designated bike lanes along larger avenues. Taxis and rideshare services like Bolt and Uber are also available for more convenience.

Andrassy Avenue is generally safe for tourists, but as with any major city, it's advisable to remain vigilant. Areas to be cautious about include the outskirts of the Avenue, particularly late at night. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded areas or public transport. Always keep your belongings secured and be aware of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance in Hungary. There are several hospitals and clinics nearby on Andrassy Avenue, including the SOTE (Semmelweis University) Medical Center. For minor health issues, pharmacies can be found along the Avenue that offer over-the-counter medications. Ensure that you have travel insurance that covers emergencies.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable shoes for walking, and consider dressing smartly when dining in upscale restaurants. Don't wear beachwear or overly casual attire in fine dining establishments. Religion: Do be respectful when visiting the State Opera House or St. Stephen’s Basilica; photography may be restricted. Don't disturb services or events. Public Transport: Do validate your tickets before boarding. Don’t engage in loud conversations or eat food on public transport. Greetings: Do offer a polite greeting, such as 'Jó napot' (Good day). Don’t initiate a hug unless you know the person well. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Hungarian dishes in the many cafes and restaurants along the Avenue. Don’t refuse local drinks like pálinka if offered by locals, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Andrassy Avenue like a local, consider visiting the cafés for a traditional Hungarian pastry, like chimney cake (kürtőskalács) or strudel. Explore the side streets off Andrassy Avenue for boutique shops and local art galleries. Attend a performance at the Hungarian State Opera for a cultural experience. If you have time, visit the nearby Heroes' Square and City Park for a complete day of exploration. Engage with local vendors in the area to learn about their crafts and stories.